Natural history of upper extremity musculoskeletal symptoms and resulting work limitations over 3 years in a newly hired working population.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

To describe the proportions of workers with upper extremity (UE) symptoms and work limitations because of symptoms in a newly hired working population over a 3-year study period and to describe transitions between various outcome states.

Methods

A total of 827 subjects completed repeat self-reported questionnaires including demographics, medical and work history, symptoms, and work status. Outcomes of interest were UE symptoms and work limitations because of symptoms.

Results

Up to 72% of workers reported symptoms at least once during the study, with 12% reporting persistent symptoms and 27% reporting fluctuating symptoms; 31% reported work limitations at least once, with 3% reporting consistent work limitations and 8% reporting fluctuating limitations.

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SUBMITTER: Gardner BT 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4049189 | biostudies-literature | 2014 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature